queen tour edinburgh

• Skip to right header navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to footer

Guided Historic Tours in Scotland

• Iconic Outlander Locations Tour
• Dragonfly Outlander Tour
• Blood of My Blood Outlander Tour
• Outlander Tour – 3 Day
• Immersion Outlander Tour – 5 Day
• The Quintessential Outlander Tour – 6 day
• Ancestry Tours
• Private Outlander Tours

Mary Queen of Scots Tour

• Midhope and More Product Range
• Outlander Tours in Scotland
• Live Virtual “Classic” Outlander Tour
• Live Virtual “Outlander & More” Tour
• Re:play Virtual “Classic” Outlander Tour 24/7
• Virtual Mary Queen of Scots Tour
• Re:play Virtual Mary Queen of Scots Tour
• Meet Your Guides
• Tour Safely
• Environmental Policy

Private Tour for 3 people Beginning from  £185.00 per person

• Duration:  2 days, (1 with driver and guide, 2nd self-guided – information pack provided.)
• Location : Day 1 in Edinburgh, Day 2 beginning in Linlithgow, a short train ride from Edinburgh
• Available: All year

The Mary Queen of Scots Tour is a private tour and an opportunity for you – and up to 2 guests (for larger groups get in touch ) to explore the castles and palaces that played a vital role in the power-play, intrigue and passion that marked Mary, Queen of Scots’ life in the 16th century.

It is a two-day experience including a full day escorted tour with a driver/guide around the castles and palaces in Central Scotland, plus a self – guided tour in Edinburgh (information pack provided).

Hightlights

Day 1: Self-guided:

• The Palace of Holyroodhouse : visit Queen Mary’s apartments
• Edinburgh Castle : birthplace of Mary’s son James and home to the Honours of Scotland

Day 2: With dedicated driver and guide

• Linlithgow Palace : birthplace of Mary
• St.Michael’s Parish Church : where Mary was baptised
• Stirling Castle : where Mary was crowned and lived as a young child
• Falkland Palace : hunting, falconry and tennis were the order of the day here
• Local Scottish Guide with expert knowledge of local history
• Dedicated driver
• Transport in a modern, comfortable vehicle

Day 1: Edinburgh

Spend a day on a self – guided tour of Edinburgh, visiting Holyrood Palace and Edinburgh Castle, and enjoying the flavour of the Royal Mile. We will provide you with a free information pack to ensure you get the most from your day.

Day 2: Linlithgow, Stirling and Falkland

On Day 2 we visit key sites associated with Mary, on a fully guided day tour. Begin at  Linlithgow Palace (photo stop as Palace is closed), where Mary was born in 1542. Imagine yourself meandering around this magnificent “pleasure palace” enjoying the sights and sounds of The Court.

We will also visit the beautiful medieval  St Michael’s Parish Church  (subject to restricted opening hours) where Mary was baptised and you will see the beautiful new bronze statue of Mary, overlooking Linlithgow Peel.

Then we move to  Stirling Castle  where Mary herself was brought to be crowned as an infant. This was her home until she was 5 yrs old. Visit the beautifully restored Royal Apartments, where you will usually be greeted by costumed guides. Hear tales of magnificent celebrations such as the baptism of her son, James VI, tinged with sadness, as this is also where she sees him for the last time.

Finally, we finish the day at  Falkland Palace , the favourite retreat of the Stewarts. Mary is thought to have enjoyed some of her happiest days here, enjoying hunting and hawking and playing tennis on the world’s oldest tennis court. On a more haunting note, it is here that her father James V was said to utter the prophecy of The Stewart Dynasty “It cam’ wi’ a lass and it’ll gang wi’ a lass” and you can also see a copy of her death mask.

Finish back in Linlithgow, where you can enjoy a drink or a meal in The Four Mary’s – historic pub, with parts dating back to the 16th century, and full of Mary, Queen of Scot’s memorabilia.

Scotland Tours

• Outlander Tour
• Ancestral Tour
• Mary, Queen of Scots Tour
• Scotland’s Castles on Film Tour
• Experiences & Products
• Gift Ideas: Scottish Road Trips
• Work with us

Helpful Information

• Terms and Conditions
• Privacy Policy

Souvenir or gift?

This is a collection of beautiful sketches of Outlander filming locations. Find out more

Get in touch

Call: +44 (0)781 868 7066 

Email: [email protected]

Location:   Linlithgow, Scotland

Day Tours from Edinburgh

Day Tours from Glasgow

Whisky Day Tours

WHISKY TOURS FROM EDINBURGH

WHISKY TOURS FROM GLASGOW

Multi-Day Tours

MULTI-DAY TOURS  FROM EDINBURGH

MULTI-DAY TOURS  FROM GLASGOW

Shore Excursions

SHORE EXCURSIONS FROM EDINBURGH PORTS

SHORE EXCURSIONS FROM GLASGOW PORTS

Mary Queen Of Scots Day Tour from Edinburgh

Tour Details

For history enthusiasts and admirers of Mary Queen of Scots, join our exclusive tour tracing her footsteps through favorite palaces, homes, and scenic views. Walk in the queen’s path and unravel lesser-known, quirky facts guided by your kilted expert. From Linlithgow Palace to Stirling Castle and Falkland Palace, immerse yourself in the fascinating and tragic tale of this iconic monarch, all while experiencing the beauty of Scotland in comfort.

Starting from your preferred location, your very own personal driver will pick you up to start your adventure for the day!

The most fitting place to officially start the tour is where it all began: Linlithgow Palace, the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots in 1542.

From the moment she was born, Mary Stewart’s life has been one of intrigue and tragedy, chequered with romances and family betrayals. No doubt you’ve heard her story through Hollywood movies, television series and books, yet, the fascination with Mary Queen of Scots continues to grow every day – and we guarantee your guide will have a few more secrets to share about her history and place in Scottish hearts today.

You’ll not be short of sights to see. Your driver will point them out and give you a few stories about their history. The first one to note: the Kelpies. Silhouetted against the sky, these impressive sculptures are a true tribute to Scotland’s myths and legends. You’ll hear the tales of how these shape-shifting sea creatures haunt the local rivers.

You will venture further north to the City of Stirling. Before arriving, you will pass by a dedication to another famous Scot: William Wallace. Standing proud against the backdrop of Stirling’s countryside, the Wallace Monument is a symbol of strength and passion for Scotland. His story has been forever immortalised by the Hollywood film, Braveheart, and continues to capture the hearts of people all over the world.

From the Wallace Monument, your guide will point out Stirling Castle, sitting high on Castle Hill. You’ll be driven right up to the gates, where you can get a spectacular view over the City of Stirling. Upon entering the castle, you’ll be met with costumed characters who will transport you back to 16th-century life, showing you Mary’s childhood home and how the castle would have looked at that time.

Stirling Castle is arguably one of the most significant places in Mary Stewart’s history. Aged just nine months, Mary was crowned Queen of Scots. The ceremony was conducted in September 1543 in the Chapel Royal of Stirling Castle, and was the first time the Honours of Scotland were used.

On the way to Falkland Palace, you’ll pass through Falkland itself, a beautiful and historic village which was also used as a filming location for the much-loved ‘Outlander’ series. You might recognise it as “Inverness” in the opening scenes where Claire and Frank arrive for their second honeymoon.

As you travel through the village, you’ll catch sight of our next destination: Falkland Palace.

Falkland Palace was used as a Royal Hunting Lodge by Mary Queen of Scots. She was enchanted by the palace and its extensive formal gardens, where she would often pursue her hobbies in falconry, hunting, archery and tennis.

Falkland Palace is actually home to the world’s oldest surviving royal tennis court, so you will be able to see where Mary Stewart played throughout her life.

As you travel back to Edinburgh, you will get to witness the wild and natural beauty of the Scottish countryside once more. Driving through rolling hills and towering mountains, you will pass by the still and beautiful waters of Loch Leven. A fantastic picture opportunity – and a breathtaking end to your tour with memories that will last a lifetime.

Return to Edinburgh

INCLUSIONS / EXCLUSIONS

Important information, meeting point.

• Edinburgh or Glasgow, we we come to you! So once you have booked your tour we will be with you at the specified time on the day of the trip!
• Traveling by Sea? We can pick you up at the Cruise Terminals in and around Edinburgh or Greenock.
• Don’t worry if you haven’t booked your accommodation yet, you can continue to book and confirm these details with us later.
• We typically reconfirm all details no later than 48 hours before your travel date. For extra reassurance our team is here should you have any questions so please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any additional questions.
• Your guide who will typically aim to be with you 5-10 minutes before your departure time. Unless you tell us otherwise we will always provide the lead passenger’s details which can be used to co-ordinate meeting up should there be any parking restrictions and/or delays at your pick-up point.
• Upon request, we can arrange a WhatsApp group allowing you to co-ordinate with us and your fellow travellers.

What to bring

• Comfortable shoes and a waterproof jacket is recommended.​

Not allowed

• Pets (assistance dogs allowed).

Covid-19 precautions – Good to Go!

• Safety measures in place including daily regular Lateral Flow Tests by all our guides.
• Our vehicles are thoroughly cleaned and sanitised daily.
• Based on current government guidelines masks are discretionary. ​

Please refer to our FAQ  for any additional queries you may, alternatively feel free to  contact us  if you need to get in touch.

Looking for other tours from Edinburgh ? Check out our Loch Ness Day Tour and our West Highland Day Tour !

Other Suggested Tours

5-Day Highland Highlights Tour from Edinburgh

5-Day Skye & Highlands Tour from Edinburgh

5-Day Mull & Skye Tour from Edinburgh

4-Day Islay Tour from Edinburgh

3-Day Isle of Mull Tour from Edinburgh

3-Day Skye Tour from Edinburgh

2-Day Loch Ness Tour from Edinburgh

St Andrews & The Fishing Villages of Fife Day Tour from Edinburgh

The Outlander Day Tour from Glasgow

The outlander day tour from edinburgh, loch ness & the highlands day tour from edinburgh.

Stirling Castle & Loch Lomond Day Tour from Edinburgh

Glasgow City Day Tour from Edinburgh

Edinburgh City Day Tour

Rosslyn Chapel & North Berwick Day Tour from Edinburgh

Lindores Abbey Distillery & Falkland Palace Day Tour from Edinburgh

West Highlands Day Tour from Edinburgh

Highland Perthshire & Whisky Day Tour from Edinburgh

Whisky Day Tour from Edinburgh

5-Day Highland Highlights Tour from Glasgow

5-day skye & highlands tour from glasgow.

5-Day Mull & Skye Tour from Glasgow

4-Day Islay Tour from Glasgow

3-day Isle of Mull Tour from Glasgow

Loch ness & the highlands day tour from glasgow.

3-Day Skye Tour From Glasgow

2-Day Loch Ness Tour from Glasgow

3-Day Speyside Whisky Adventure from Edinburgh

Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond & Whisky Day Tour from Glasgow

Highland perthshire & whisky day tour from glasgow, whisky day tour from glasgow.

Stirling Castle & Loch Lomond Shore Excursion

Glasgow city day tour.

Culzean Castle & Robert Burns Day Tour from Glasgow

Edinburgh city day tour from glasgow.

Glencoe & Oban Day Tour from Glasgow

©2024 Hopscotch Travel Limited

• Registered Office: First Floor, 227 West George Street, Glasgow, G2 2ND

Company Number: SC715894

MARY QUEEN OF SCOTS PRIVATE TOUR FROM EDINBURGH

‘Good To Go’, providing Covid-19 safe tours

Reschedule at any time if your plans change

Fully transferable, secure deposit

• Private day tours from Edinburgh /
• Mary Queen of Scots private tour from Edinburgh /

Mary, Queen of Scots is the most famous and interesting Scottish monarch. Born in 1542, the daughter of King James V of Scotland and Mary of Guise, she became queen of Scotland at only a week old and was betrothed to the Dauphin of France and educated at the French Court. Her reign was marred by troubled marriages, betrayal, rebellion and murder. Each private tour is conducted in our premium Mercedes minivans , ensuring your comfort as we venture along the narrow back roads of Scotland. Your knowledgable kilt-wearing private tour guide will tell you the stories and show you the sights on this tour. We offer flexibility and your time inside and outside the vehicle is up to you.

Searching Availability...

Tour duration 1 day (9am – 5pm)

Book direct for the best rate You won’t find a better rate for our tours

We pick you up We’ll collect & return you from your Edinburgh hotel, cruise port or airport

Instant confirmation Receipt for your booking immediately

Inclusions:

• All-inclusive private tour
• Door to door service
• Dedicated private tour guide and driver
• All travel costs
• Luxury Mercedes tour van

Exclusions:

• Lunch (we can recommend a place)
• Entrance into attractions & sites
• Gratuities (optional)

WHAT WE’LL DO…

Probably Scotland’s most famous Monarch, Mary was a devout Catholic and claimed the English Crown was rightfully hers. She was perceived as dangerous to the English Queen, Elizabeth I who, after a turbulent 19 year journey beheaded Mary for treason at Fotheringhay Castle near Peterborough.

After a short period at Peterborough Cathedral, in 1612 her son James exhumed her body and brought her to Westminster Cathedral. Learn about Mary’s troubled history and visit some of the most famous sites from her return from France and her life in Scotland.

Craigmillar Castle A stones throw from Edinburgh, Craigmillar Castle is often referred to as Edinburgh’s ‘other castle’. Mary spent two periods of her life here, once whilst quite unwell after the birth of her son and once before the murder of her Husband in the ‘Craigmillar plot’. Come to Craigmillar Castle and learn about the time in Mary’s life just her flight to England.

Linlithgow Palace The birthplace of Mary, Linlithgow Palace was a ‘half way house’ along the Royal Route between Edinburgh and Stirling and was often used as a recreation and entertainment venue for the Scottish Royal Family. The Palace was destroyed after Bonnie Prince Charlie (the Jacobite young pretender) left in 1745 and much of its history now lies in Ruin.

Stirling Castle tour Mary spent a considerable amount of time at Stirling Castle throughout her life. She was crowned in the chapel at Stirling Castle when just 9 months old and returned to the crown palace many times in her adult life. The Castle has been widely restored to how it would have looked in the 16th century and is a must-see attraction in Mary and Scotland’s history.

Falkland Palace Arguably one of the most impressive preserved 16th century buildings in the world, Falkland Palace was the Stuart Royal family retreat. Mary spent summertime pursuing country activities such as falconry and also Royal tennis (Real Tennis) at the world’s oldest tennis court. The Palace has extensive grounds and an orchard that Mary spent much time in, thinking about her ascension to the throne of England.

Leith Docks Our last point of call on the tour is in Leith, now a suburb of Edinburgh but still technically a separate town. After the death King Francis II of France in December 1560 Mary returned to Scotland grief stricken. She landed in the Port of Leith and sought refuge at Lambs House where her perilous journey through Scotland began as an adult. Her claim to the Scottish throne and strong catholic beliefs were not well received.

Edinburgh Castle Whilst we typically don’t include Edinburgh Castle in a day tour because of logistics and time required to tour the castle, it is a must-see attraction whilst you’re in Edinburgh.  The castle at Edinburgh has been rebuilt many times and was both a military garrison and royal seat. Mary gave birth to James VI at  Edinburgh Castle in June 1566. Centuries later a small coffin was discovered behind wood panelling in the room. Was this the body of the heir to the Scottish throne?

SUGGESTED TOUR ROUTE…

Each tour we operate is unique and designed to your requirements. Here is an example of this tour’s route…

• Distance Instructions
• Distance 130 miles
• Time 4 h 30 min
• Speed 29 mph
• Min altitude 0 ft
• Descent 0 ft

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

These are some of the frequently asked questions about our Mary Queen of Scots private tour from Edinburgh, however if you have a specific question please contact us

Can I customise the tour?

Yes, we can customise any itinerary. We’ll email you shortly after booking to ask if you have any customisation requests and suggest additions you may wish to make.

Can the tour start at the airport / cruise port

Yes, we regularly pick up guests from the airport or cruise port. Read more about shore excursions from cruise ships

Do I need to bring anything with me?

We recommend bringing a jacket (even if the forecast is good!) and comfortable shoes. We’ll provide everything else including umbrellas, binoculars refreshments and a wee treat or two!

Do you provide car seats for children?

Yes, by law children under 135cm (4.4 foot) must travel in a booster seat. We can also provide baby seats. Please advise us if you need this.

How do I pay for the tour

When you book you pay a 20% deposit. The final payment is due on the date of departure and is taken from your card automatically. We don’t accept cash for your tour payment.

I need to change my tour date

No problem, as long as we have availability we can change the tour date. The deposit is transferable to your new date

What about ‘comfort stops’

There are plenty of toilet opportunities! Each of our tours is designed to have regular breaks and tour guide can accommodate most requests for bathroom stops.

What about lunch on tour

Scotland is full of amazing places to eat and we’ll recommend stops that champion the best in Scottish quality and make the most of your time.

What is the maximum number of guests

We have two versions of our minivan; either 6 or 7 passengers. Find out more about our premium minivans

Where do I meet the tour

We pick you up from your hotel or accommodation. In some instances parking in the city centre is restricted so there might be a short walk to your vehicle, but your guide will walk with you to the vehicle.

ALL OF OUR TOURS COME COMPLETE WITH…

Kilt wearing tour guide, we are passionate, professional and full of personality. let us share our knowledge of scotland, hotel / cruise berth pick up, we’ll collect & return you at the start and end of the tour, bottled scottish water, `chilled, premium still and sparkling scottish water is provided, premium mercedes minivan, our minivans offer luxury interiors and excellent legroom for up to 7 guests and their bags, onboard wifi, stay connected to friends and family on tour with unlimited super-fast wifi, recent customer testimonials.

Guide picked us up and dropped us off on time (very important since we were coming from a cruise ship) and was very friendly and knowledgeable. Drove us to all the key points of interest, and the van was very clean and comfortable. Communication from [...]

From the moment Sandy picked us up, we knew we were in for a wonderful day trip experience around Edinburgh. His historical knowledge of the city and surrounding area is top notch! He tailored our day to take in some hidden gems and provided us [...]

Annemarie D

We had so much fun with Andy! He was a pleasure to spend an afternoon with. We visited Rosslyn Chapel and some other places that were in keeping with our interests, like the oldest pub in Scotland (I know, many make the claim, but I'm [...]

Mary Carol S

Fantastic day with Michael! Great views of Loch Lamond. A nice hike and lunch there as well. Michael was really informative about Sterling Castle and all of Glasgow. I would highly recommend this tour and Michael.

Private Tours Edinburgh

Late Bookings , Custom Group Tours of Scotland

Mary Queen of Scots day tour

£ 295.00 Original price was: £295.00. £ 285.00 Current price is: £285.00.

Mary Queen of Scots tours – four locations

Description

• Reviews (0)

Mary Queen of Scots tour

Our tour features a visit to the key places in the life of Mary Queen of Scots including Linlithgow Palace and Stirling Castle . Five films have been made about Mary Queen of Scots including the 2019  film featuring Oscar Nominee Saoirse Ronan in the role of  Mary, and Margot Robbie  as Elizabeth I .

Please enable javascript in your browser to book

• Linlithgow Palace

Linlithgow Palace is where Mary was born in 1542.

Next to the Palace is the medieval  St Michael’s Parish Church  where Mary was baptised . A new bronze statue of Mary has been erected next to the church .

Linlithgow Palace featured as Wentworth Prison in Outlander. This royal pleasure palace and birthplace of  Mary Queen of Scots. 

2. Stirling Castle  is where Mary was brought to be crowned as an infant.

This was her home until she was 5 years old. The castle features the royal palace , rose gardens and Royal Apartments. In the castle Mary saw the baptism of her son, James VI . Sadly this is also the place where she sees him for the last time.

3. Loch Leven

Loch Leven recalls one of the more sombre periods in Mary’s life.  Loch Leven Castle  is where Mary was imprisoned for nearly a year, suffered a miscarriage and was forced to abdicate in favour of her son James. She eventually escaped with the help of George Douglas but went on to suffer defeat at The Battle of Langside, and on to imprisonment in England. On the tour we stop at Loch Leven .

4. Falkland Palace , the favourite retreat of the Stewarts. Mary is thought to have enjoyed some of her happiest days here, enjoying hunting and hawking and playing tennis on the world’s oldest tennis court. On a more haunting note, it is here that her father James V was said to utter the prophecy of The Stewart Dynasty “It cam’ wi’ a lass and it’ll gang wi’ a lass” and you can also see a copy of her death mask.

Nine key dates in the life of  Mary Queen of Scots

• Born 8 December 1542 in Linlithgow Palace.
• Crowned Queen of Scots in the Chapel Royal, Stirling Castle, aged just nine months.
• Smuggled to France aged five, where she lived until she was 18.
• Gave birth to her only child in Edinburgh Castle. He would rise to become James VI of Scotland and James I of England.
• Some believe she arranged to have her second husband, Lord Darnley, assassinated.
• Married for a third time to Lord Bothwell – some believe he abducted her against her will.
• Imprisoned for almost a year in Lochleven Castle in Kinross before managing to escape.
• Last hours in Scotland were spent in Dundrennan Abbey in Dumfries & Galloway before journeying to England to seek protection from her cousin, Queen Elizabeth I.
• Confined in England for 18 years before Elizabeth sanctioned her death warrant and she was beheaded. She died 8 February 1587 in Fotheringhay Castle.

The 2019 Mary Queen of Scots film features Oscar Nominee Saoirse Ronan in the role of the ambitious Mary, whose attempts to reclaim the throne of Scotland incurs the wrath of the virgin queen, Elizabeth I, played by Margot Robbie . Former Dr Who David Tennant also features in the film as John Knox  . Much of the filming for the £180 million project has taken place in Edinburgh, 20 miles from the queen’s  birthplace in Linlithgow, with scenes also shot in Glencoe, Blackness Castle , Oxford and Derbyshire. The film also features a digital recreation of Linlithgow Palace ,  birthplace of  Mary Queen of Scots.

Mary Queen of Scots tours  – phone +447305-294773 or book online .

Private tours Edinburgh phone +44131-549-9785 today , we are open 7 days a week .

Private Custom Tours from Edinburgh 2024

*************************************************

Check availability and book a tour – click on the red Book Now button

Lowest price guarantee – we guarantee our prices are 30% lower than any other online travel agent

Can’t find what you’re looking for ? Search this site or design your own small group tour of Scotland with a bespoke tours of Scotland  picked by you from Private tours Edinburgh

Take a Highlands Scotland tour from Edinburgh and discover the beauty of Scotland’s landscapes. Late bookings for UK tours can be made by phone / WhatsApp +447305294773.

Check out all our latest  discounts and special offers

We are the Last minute bookings specialist  – Whatsapp +447305294773 or  contact us online  . 

Outlander Blood of my Blood filming   began filming at Doune Castle in Scotland in January. Outlander fans in the US , UK and around the world are getting excited about seeing the second half of season 7 this year and season 8 , the final season next year .

Crown castles tour Scotland. Season six of the Crown featuring St Andrews is on Netflix.

Late Bookings for our small group tours in the UK can be made by phone / Whatsapp on  +447305-294773 ,

toll free number 1-866-233-2644

or online on our tour bookings page

Midhope Castle tours – Braveheart tours Scotland

The Crown tours of Scotland

Castles and Braveheart tours –   Book Castles and Braveheart tours now !

Outlander and Game of Thrones tours –   Book Outlander and Game of Thrones tours now !

Tours of Scotland –   Book Tours of Scotland now!

Check out our five star tours –  four castles tour ,  the Braveheart tour 

or the Game of Thrones tours Scotland

Read out our five star reviews for our unique range of private tours .

Lallybroch castle Blood of my Blood tours

*****************************

“Stunning ” Five star Viator review: Scottish Whisky and Castles Private Tour ” Such a great day. The castles are breathtaking and Deanston Distillery tour is interesting and tasty 😉  ”

Price guarantee

Save 30% on our tours – we guarantee savings of 30% over any other online travel agents

Refund guarantee

Tours can be cancelled up to 48 hours before the booking date with a full refund .

Need more information  ? Please phone / text / Whatsapp us on +447305294773 or contact us online 

Custom tours of Scotland can be arranged – pick the locations you want to visit .  For more information and bookings please phone / Whatsapp  +447305-294773 or contact us online . 

More info about Lallybroch Castle

• Castle tours UK
• Most popular tours
• Outlander and Game of Thrones tours
• Highland tours

Private Custom tours Edinburgh – Book Online .

Buy your souvenir prints of Scotland and Eilean Donan Castle from Photogold .

Private tours of    Lallybroch and Outlander , Glencoe and the Highlands , Eilean Donan Castle ,  St Andrews ,  the Kelpies in Falkirk , Game of Thrones and Doune Castle  .

Your driver / guide is David Rankin   , a photographer  with 20 years experience  and a tour guide for 6 years . David has extensive knowledge of the top locations in Scotland for a wide range of tours to castles ,  the Highlands and film locations including Outlander and Game of Thrones   . Please phone / text / Whatsapp him on +447305294773 or contact us online 

Edinburgh shore excursions – all of our tours can be booked as shore excursions

Airport taxi transfers service is also available from Edinburgh and Glasgow Airport

Ready to book a tour ? – click on the red Book Now button

Private Tours Search

For last minute bookings phone / Whatsapp +447305294773 , use our toll free number 1-866-233-2644 or  contact us online  . 

Explore Scotland with our own unique videos of Scotland including Outlander film locations , tours from Edinburgh to the Highlands , the Kelpies and Eilean Donan Castle . contact us online for tour enquiries .

Check out our Twitter feed

Private tours Edinburgh answer all your most important questions about Outlander and Scotland tours

• where is the Game of Thrones castle in Scotland ?
• is Midhope Castle a filming location in Outlander   ?
• what exactly are the Kelpies ?
• can I see the Braveheart sword on your Braveheart tour  ?
• can I design my own custom tour and choose the places I want to visit ?

IMPORTANT - Please use the red Book Now button to check availability and make a booking

All photography and videos are copyright of Photogold

These castles have provided the backdrops for bloody battles or famous films, and are the most popular castles in Scotland Stirling Castle. Midhope Castle. Blackness Castle. Doune Castle.

Despite initially declining, Gibson eventually decided to direct the film, as well as star as Wallace.  Braveheart was filmed in Scotland and Ireland from June to October 1994 . Book your Braveheart tour online

What is  Broch Tuarach   ? And can you take a tour to it ? It is an old   broch  on the land,  Broch Tuarach means  “north-facing tower” in Gaelic.  Lallybroch , as the estate is known among those who live there, in turn means “lazy tower”. Lallybroch , ancestral home of  Jamie Fraser  , is also known as  Broch Tuarach  .  Broch Tuarach tours   can be booked online . For last minute bookings phone / Whatsapp us on  +447305-294773

There are no reviews yet.

You must be logged in to post a review.

Related products

Game of Thrones and Outlander – four castles tour Scotland 2024

Scottish whisky and castles tour

Stirling Castle and the Kelpies tour

Four Scottish Outlander castles tour incl Lallybroch and Castle Leoch

IMPORTANT - Please use the red Book Now button to check availability and make a booking Dismiss

This month, we are running special PRIDE HISTORY TOURS.

Only on FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS – Click here to book.

STEP DOWN INTO EDINBURGH'S HIDDEN HISTORY

Journey Back In Time

Imagine a warren of streets frozen in time, where centuries of stories are just waiting to be told. Discover authentic truths about Edinburgh's dark past, and find out what it was really like for the people who lived, worked, and died on the Close.

FIND OUT MORE

BEST UK ATTRACTION

The Real Mary King’s Close has been named the Best Visitor Attraction in the UK by Tripadvisor in its 2024 Travellers’ Choice Awards!

Book your tour to visit  one of the top 1% of things to do worldwide.

Dr Arnott’s Sampling Sensation

Every Saturday and Sunday,  uncover the secrets of 17 th -century medicine with a hands-on workshop led by an expert from his time: Dr Arnott. Examine his patients using his favourite method… by analysing urine’s colour, smell and TASTE! ALL your senses will be required!

Free Audio Guides

If you require translation, we offer free audio guides via our mobile app in French, German, Italian, Spanish, Mandarin, Dutch, Portuguese, Polish and Hungarian. To find out more click here .

Find out more

Book a private tour.

Enjoy your very own Private Tour of The Real Mary King’s Close for you and up to 19 additional guests. Located in the heart of   Edinburgh’s Old Town , your guests will go on a journey through time on these now hidden streets where they will uncover some of the city’s deepest secrets. 

Explore uniquely preserved streets...

Journey back in time and follow in the footsteps of former residents. Step down and explore the rooms, streets and spaces underneath the famous Royal Mile - a unique glimpse into the city's past, and Edinburgh's only preserved 17th century street.

EXPLORE UNDERGROUND

Meet The Residents

Experience over 400 years of history, and discover the stories of your character guide. From myths and legends, to the deadly plague epidemic and a famous royal visitor – there’s a myriad of tales just waiting to be told on this one hour guided tour.

Find Us On The Royal Mile

A ten minute walk from Edinburgh Castle, across from the magnificent St Giles Cathedral.

Use postcode: EH1 1PG

Browse a beautiful range of hand-crafted and locally sourced gifts, homeware and souvenirs. All items are handmade by local artisans or sourced from the best of Scotland’s rich produce and craftsmanship.

Mary Ogle’s Coffee Cart

Treat yourself to our delicious takeaway teas and coffees sourced from  Brodies 1867 , local coffee roasters in Edinburgh for over 150 years.

Mary King's Blog

We are britain’s best visitor attraction, plan a trip to loch ness from edinburgh, newsletter signup.

Be the first to hear about our special events and latest news.

The Real Mary King’s Close 2 Warriston’s Close High Street Edinburgh EH1 1PG

Privacy Overview

We've noticed that you're using an out of date browser. We recommend that you update to the latest version to enhance your browsing experience.

We've refreshed our website design so things may look a little different if you've been here before. We'll be making more improvements soon so watch this space.

Mary Queen of Scots tours

© Private tours Edinburgh, Scotland

Linlithgow Palace, Scotland , birthplace of Mary

Mary Queen of Scots tours from Private tours Edinburgh

Our private Mary Queen of Scots tour features a visit to the key places in the life of Mary Queen of Scots, visiting her birthplace Linlithgow Palace , Stirling Castle , Loch Leven and Falkland Palace. Tour price is £300

Looking for things to do in Edinburgh ? How about taking a tour from Edinburgh of the amazing Mary Queen of Scots film locations in Scotland ?

Our tour features a visit to the key places in the life of Mary Queen of Scots including her birthplace Linlithgow Palace , Stirling Castle , Loch Leven and Falkland Palace . The 2019 Mary Queen of Scots film featured Oscar Nominee  Saoirse Ronan  as Mary, whose attempts to reclaim the throne of Scotland incurs the wrath of the queen, Elizabeth I, played by  Margot Robbie .

Whatsapp +447305294773

Linlithgow Palace

• Stirling Castle
• Falkland Palace
• Private tours Edinburgh

For the latest information about availability and best prices please contact David at Private Tours Edinburgh by phone / WhatsApp on +447305294773 or contact us online  .

Book your  day trips from Edinburgh .

Your tour guide is David , an experienced tour guide and travel photographer. Your photo guide will offer assistance as required with taking pictures.

To avoid booking fees you can make a booking by phone / WhatsApp on +447305294773 or  contact us online  . 

Check out our brand new range of Scottish travel mugs

Linlithgow Palace is where Mary was born in 1542.

Next to the Palace is the medieval St Michael’s Parish Church where Mary was baptised . Mary was then taken up to Stirling Castle to live until she was five years old . A new bronze statue of Mary has been erected next to the palace .

Linlithgow Palace featured as Wentworth Prison in Outlander.

Check tour availability now

Stirling Castle  is where Mary was brought to be crowned as an infant.

This was her home until she was 5 years old. The castle features the royal palace , rose gardens and Royal Apartments. In the castle Mary saw the baptism of her son, James VI . Sadly this is also the place where she saw him for the last time.

Loch Leven recalls one of the darker periods in Mary’s life. Loch Leven Castle is where Mary was imprisoned for nearly a year, suffered a miscarriage and was forced to abdicate in favour of her son James. She eventually escaped with the help of the boatman George Douglas but went on to suffer defeat at The Battle of Langside, and on to imprisonment in England.

Whatsapp +447305294773 .

Falkland Palace , the favourite retreat of the Stewarts. Mary is thought to have enjoyed some of her happiest days here, enjoying hunting and hawking and playing tennis on the world’s oldest tennis court. On a more haunting note, it is here that her father James V was said to utter the prophecy of The Stewart Dynasty “It cam’ wi’ a lass and it’ll gang wi’ a lass” and you can also see a copy of her death mask.

• Born 8 December 1542 in Linlithgow Palace.
• Crowned Queen of Scots in the Chapel Royal, Stirling Castle, aged just nine months.
• Smuggled to France aged five, where she lived until she was 18.
• Gave birth to her only child in Edinburgh Castle. He would rise to become James VI of Scotland and I of England.
• Some believe she arranged to have her second husband, Lord Darnley, assassinated.
• Married for a third time to Lord Bothwell – some believe he abducted her against her will.
• Imprisoned for almost a year in Lochleven Castle in Kinross before managing to escape.
• Last hours in Scotland were spent in Dundrennan Abbey in Dumfries & Galloway before journeying to England to seek protection from her cousin, Queen Elizabeth I.
• Confined in England for 18 years before Elizabeth sanctioned her death warrant and she was beheaded. She died 8 February 1587 in Fotheringhay Castle.

The latest Mary Queen of Scots film features Oscar Nominee  Saoirse Ronan  who performs the role of the ambitious Mary, whose attempts to reclaim the throne of Scotland incurs the wrath of the virgin queen, Elizabeth I, played by  Margot Robbie . Former Dr Who David Tennant also features in the film as John Knox , Mary's sworn enemy . The film had a budget of £180 million , making it the most expensive film ever made in Scotland . Filmin took place in Edinburgh , 20 miles from the queen's birthplace in Linlithgow, with scenes also shot in Glencoe, Blackness Castle , Oxford and Derbyshire. The film also features a digital recreation of Linlithgow Palace ,  birthplace of  Mary Queen of Scots.

Lunch and entrance fees

Mary Queen of Scots tours – phone +447305-294773 or book   online  .

Book tours of Scotland on +44-7305-294773

Scotland has an amazing history of artists from JoLoMO to Jack Vettriano , of Singing Butler fame .

Private tours Edinburgh  Contact us now on Whatsapp +447305294773 for enquiries and bookings .

Your tour guide is  David  , an experienced tour guide and travel photographer. He is a landscape photographer on  Pictures of Scotland  . Find out more about him on  Tripadvisor

Outlander tours

What are the best selling castle tours for 2024 ?

Tour of St Andrews and Historic Fife

Scottish whisky and castles tour  - private tour

Four castles tour

Game of Thrones and Outlander tours

Custom tours of Scotland  are also available. Airport transfers service is also available from Edinburgh and Glasgow Airport to St Andrews , Glasgow , Dundee and all the major cities in Scotland

Price on Request

Departure days.

• W Wednesday

January — December

Contact details

• +44 (7305) 294773
• View tour details
• [email protected]

Tour information

• Edinburgh - City Centre
• Edinburgh Airport

½ Day

• Driver guide
• Small Group (1-16)
• Film and TV

JavaScript needs to be enabled to see this. You can turn this on in your browser settings.

Tour gallery

Tour company information

Private tours edinburgh scotland.

Private Tours Edinburgh offers custom tours of Scotland with a professional guide on hand to give advice & information . Our four castles tours of Scotland including Stirling are five star rated . Outlander & Blood of my Blood tours to Lallybroch ( Midhope Castle ), Castle Leoch (Doune Castle) and other locations . Game of Thrones & James Bond tours. Tour the amazing scenery of Glencoe and the Highlands. Custom tours of Scotland .Shore excursions. Five star reviews . Private Tours Edinburgh distillery tours.Whatsapp +447305294773 for more details of special offers and availability

Social Channels

Visit Private tours Edinburgh Scotland

Opening times

10 am to 6 pm seven days a week Text / Whatsapp customer services 24/7 on +44-7305-294773

Other tours from this company

Private Outlander tour Scotland - Castle Leoch, Fort W...

Departs: Edinburgh - City Centre, Edinburgh Airport, Glasgow City Centre, Glasgow Airport, Edinburg...

Our private group tours from Edinburgh , Scotland take up to four people to thre...

Price from:

Scottish Whisky and castles tour from Private tours Edi...

Our private group visits a malt whisky distillery and two unique Scottish castle...

Top Scottish film locations tour - Private tours Edinbu...

Departs: Edinburgh - City Centre, Edinburgh

Top Scottish film locations featuring Doune Castle ( Monty Python , Game of Thro...

The Outlaw King film locations tour - full day private...

Take a tour of The Outlaw King film locations in Scotland , featuring Blackness...

The content of many of our web listings is provided by third party operators and not VisitScotland. VisitScotland accepts no responsibility for (1) any error or misrepresentation contained in third party listings, and (2) the contents of any external links within web listings ((1) and (2) together hereinafter referred to as the "Content"). VisitScotland excludes all liability for loss or damage caused by any reliance placed on the Content. The Content is provided for your information only and is not endorsed by VisitScotland.

The castle is currently closed due to Storm Erik.

The castle is currently closed, apologies for any inconvenience.

Edinburgh Castle and Mary Queen of Scots: 5 Fascinating Facts

18 January 2019

• Scottish History

Mary Queen of Scots is one of the most celebrated figures in Scottish history. To coincide with the UK launch of a new film about her life, we explore her links to Edinburgh Castle.

Mary was the first monarch to be crowned with the Honours of Scotland

The Honours of Scotland are the crown, sceptre and sword that make up Scotland’s crown jewels. The crown was remodelled for James V for the coronation of Mary of Guise in 1540. The first time the enhanced crown, sword and sceptre were used to crown a new monarch was in 1543, when Mary was made Queen of Scotland aged just 9 months old.

The Honours of Scotland can be seen during your visit to Edinburgh Castle . They are on display in the Crown Room , in the same secure vault built by Mary’s son, James VI to house the royal treasures.

Mary dined in style at the castle

Mary knew how to put on a show – she hosted many grand affairs at court and carefully choreographed clothing, banquets and entertainment full of symbolism. On several occasions during her reign Edinburgh Castle was used as an iconic location at the heart of major royal events.

On 2 nd September 1561 the royal procession celebrating Mary’s grand return to Scotland began here. She left Holyroodhouse and slipped into the castle through a private entranceway. Mary dined with a select few at a state banquet in the Great Hall , before riding out to begin her formal grand entrance into Edinburgh, signalled by an impressive gun salute.

Mary gave birth here

Mary’s most obvious connection to Edinburgh Castle is that she gave birth to the future King James VI here, on 19 th June 1566.

Shaken by the recent murder of her secretary Rizzio, Mary abandoned the comforts of Holyroodhouse for the security of Edinburgh Castle . When the time came, she moved to the tiny room, known as the birth chamber, where she gave birth.

If you visit the castle today you can visit the birth room and Mary’s former bedchamber. A new exhibition in the Mary Room explores her legacy and the fate of her descendants.

Mons Meg fired in Mary’s honour

The great cannon Mons Meg was largely obsolete and only used for ceremonial occasions by the time of Mary Queen of Scots. She was fired on 24 th September 1558 to celebrate the marriage of Mary to Francis, the French dauphin. It is said that a cannonball was fired almost 2 miles across the city and was recovered from Wardie Muir, close to the present day Botanical Gardens.

The castle held out for Mary’s cause

By the 1570s Mary was in captivity in England, where she would spend the rest of her days. But her fate had not yet been decided. Her infant son, James VI was king but in reality the country was run by a faction of Protestant lords. As civil war broke out in Scotland, Sir William Kirkcaldy of Grange held the castle in support of Mary.

The Lang Siege began in June 1571. Kirkcaldy, well-prepared and defiant to the end, held the castle for many months until April 1573 when an English army arrived with guns and mortars – including two great bombards. On 21 May 1573 the English opened fire on the castle and following two days of devastating bombardment, the Lang Siege came to a close. The upper part of David’s Tower came crashing down, the castle’s defences were shattered and their resources used up. Kirkcaldy was forced to surrender, marking the end of significant support for Mary in Scotland.

If after seeing the film you are longing for more #MaryQueenOfScots then take a look at our trail and follow in the footsteps of this famous lady at several of our properties across Scotland.

Subscribe by email

We'll keep you up to date with the latest news from Edinburgh Castle.

[email protected]

Call us; +44 (0) 7590 026 077.

Second level Mary, Queen of Scots activity tour 

Take your learning into the heart of edinburgh's old town.  your class will use archive images and maps as they explore queen mary's edinburgh on this teacher-designed and led tour.

As of 28/05/2023,  321 of our 326 Tripadvisor reviews awarded us five-stars! 

Mary, queen of scots activity tour for schools.

This tour is a carefully crafted experience for your pupils, one which will allow them to use pieces of historical evidence and discover the Edinburgh places where Mary once walked.

The main events in Mary’s life took place in various locations. Scotland, France and, ultimately, England all served as stages for Mary’s story.   We can’t (and don’t) cover all of Mary’s life in this tour, but we will take your classes to the scenes of incredible importance in Mary’s life.  

From a long-lost palace where Mary spent her childhood to the home of one of her most bitter rivals, this tour allows your children to explore the city as Mary would have known it.   We think there’s something inspiring about visiting the places where history happened! 

This tour is not an expository lecture.  Instead, we’ve incorporated numerous opportunities for ‘think, pair, share’ and other strategies.  Although your guide has over twenty years of experience as a primary teacher, this tour has been designed by him to let your pupils use and discuss a variety of different types of evidence.  

BOOK THIS TOUR

£3.50 per pupil.  This includes a 50p donation to City of Edinburgh Council for using Greyfriars Kirkyard . No charge for adults.

Click the button below to secure a suitable date and start the discussion about your tour.

Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

We work with you to give you the tour you need and want

Historic Edinburgh Tours is rated '5-star' on Tripadvisor

RISK ASSESSMENT

You will need to complete your own risk assessment form for the trip. 

Click here to download our guidance notes for teacher risk assessment.  

My P5s (and the grown ups) had a fantastic time on the Mary Queen of Scots tour. Being at the spot where Darnley died and having the map showing how it would have looked at the time was amazing. And the Tesco on South Bridge will never look the same to us now. Robert had the class captivated as they became history detectives and found out about the significance that familiar places had in the past. After 2 years of no trips, what an inspiring experience to start us off again! Many thanks.

Filigree06, Tripadvisor, May 2022

Meet just outside the Museum of Scotland on Chambers Street.

We recommend starting a morning tour at 10.30 am and an afternoon tour at 12.30 pm.  We do have some flexibility over these times.

This tour takes 1.5 hours (approx).

This tour finishes in the High Street, close to the City Chambers.

Moderate gradients throughout, uneven paving, steps.

We will invoice your school after the tour.  There's no need to bring payment on the day.  We'll send the email to you; if you could pass this on to your school's business manager, we'd be very grateful.​

LEARNING QUESTIONS WE CAN COVER ON THIS TOUR

Here are five of the places we can visit on your private tour. There are more! How long we spend on each story and how much walking we do is up to you!

"What happened to Mary's second husband, Henry, Lord Darnley?"

Your "Mary" tour of Edinburgh starts with a bang…almost literally!  First, we'll use 'crime scene' maps of the infamous Kirk o'Field site to learn about Mary's second husband's assassination.

The Kirk o'Field site is a fascinating and relevant part of your Mary tour.  Henry, Lord Darnley, was murdered on February 10, 1567, and we'll take your pupils right to the heart of the crime scene!  This assassination was one of the most significant events in Mary's history.

“What were the important places in Mary’s Edinburgh?”

We’ll visit quite a few important places in Mary’s life.  First, your class will see the site of the long-lost palace of Mary’s mother, Mary de Guise.  When she was an infant, Mary would have known this place well.  We’ll also learn about the welcome Edinburgh gave Mary when she returned to Scotland after her first husband’s death.

Your pupils can visit the High Kirk of St Giles (for a 50p extra fee which we give directly to the Kirk).  They’ll see where John Knox lived and Mary spent her last night in Edinburgh.

"Why was Mary's reign so important?" 

There are many reasons so many classes study the reign of Mary, Queen of Scots, and we'll try to answer some of these on your tour.

Your pupils will learn about the significance of Mary's tomb. Mary's son, James, became King of Scotland and also of England. He commissioned a grand tomb. We will see a replica of this tomb in the Museum of Scotland.   Classes will also learn about the intolerance of Mary's time when they visit the site of the palace of Marie de Guise, and they'll also find out about the armed struggle even after Mary had left Scotland.

“What things happened to Mary while she lived in Edinburgh?”

Of course, Mary spent time in places other than Edinburgh, but many things happened here.

Mary spent some of her childhood in a Castlehill palace, and the reasons behind this help explain why her reign was a troubled one.  Although we don’t visit Holyroodhouse, we will visit the site of the murder of Henry, Lord Darnley.  Your pupils will also see a replica of Mary’s tomb, and they’ll find out about support for Mary even after she’d left Scotland.

“What evidence can we use to find out what Mary’s Edinburgh was like?”

We think it’s inspiring to use copies of the famous “Kirk o’Field murder scene” at the very place shown on this map!

Your pupils will use special laminated sheets to discover the past.  There are plenty of opportunities for ‘think, pair, share’ as we compare images from the past with the streets we can see today.  Your class will also see the replica of Mary’s tomb and a coin which tells us a lot more than they might expect!

What was life like in Mary’s Edinburgh?”

We know that a little ‘colour’ can help your pupils imagine what life was like for the people who lived during the reign of Mary, Queen of Scots.  

We can lead your class right into an Old Town close by.  These essential little side-streets are where most of Edinburgh’s social life happened.

Your classes can find out about typical domestic arrangements, including (of course) what people did with their ‘household waste’!  “Gardyloo!”

TRUST US WITH YOUR TOUR

Certificate of Excellence award winner 2017 and 2018.

Tripadvisor Traveller's Choice award winner 2020 and 2023.

As of December 15, 2022, 99.6% of our reviews have been five stars.

Your tour will be led by a primary teacher with 25 years of classroom experience.

TEACHER REVIEWS

"The enthusiasm of Robert our tour guide really captured the children’s attention…I would highly recommend the tour for any class studying the History of Scotland or Edinburgh.”

N. Ritchie - Class Teacher

F.A.Q. SECTION

Q: Can we have a snack break on tour?

A: You can, but this means your class will be 'snacking' during their 1.5 hours. We strongly recommend you snack your class outside the Museum of Scotland (the steps up to the old central doorway make a great place to sit on a sunny day). You may also want to ask the Museum if your class can use the toilets. The Museum opens at 10 am, and I typically prefer classes to attend any sessions there from 10.30 am onwards. Reception staff may allow you to use the toilets before then. Male and Female toilets are on the ground floor and are situated next to each other. They're straightforward to 'police'.   Please note that we don't organise this for you, and it depends on the Museum of Scotland.

Q: What happens if it is a stormy day?

A: Don't worry, we will be there! We want you to have a good tour. If the weather is awful, we know you may prefer to reschedule your tour. We can even reschedule on the day - please let us know by 8 am on the day of your tour. You can text us at 07590026077.

Q: What happens if we are running late?

A: Don't worry! Robert was (and still is) a classroom teacher. Traffic can happen, and parent helpers can have issues and turn up late. These things happen! It may impact the duration of your tour if you have time restraints.

Q: Are there toilets along the tour route?

A: No. We've not planned or risk assessed for toilet stops on any of our routes.

Q: We have a pupil/adult in a wheelchair. What do we need to do?

A: Edinburgh's history is there for all to be enjoyed. Please let us know in advance, and we can alter the tour route so everyone can enjoy the Old Town and our stories.

Q: Do you have any risk assessment advice?

A: Yes! You will need to complete your forms, but we've included a suggested risk assessment for your tour.  You can access it here.

Q: Are there other things to do with Mary, Queen of Scots, which we can book in the Old Town?

A: We can 'dovetail' your tour times (and finish location) around any workshops you have booked at Edinburgh Castle, Riddle's Court or the Museum of Scotland. We also recommend looking at a free, self-guided tour at the Museum of Scotland, where several 'Mary' related artefacts exist. We visit the Museum on this tour, but the learners may enjoy some time browsing the exhibition areas. You can also book a lunch space in the Museum of Scotland.

Q: We've got two classes. Can we combine both for one tour?

A: Sadly not. Bigger groups are harder to move around the Old Town and cause more disruption for those around us. We're also limited to 35 people in Greyfriars Kirkyard. We may need to ask additional adult staff to wait at the Kirkyard gates. This is a ruling by the City of Edinburgh Council.

The Complete Guide to Walking the Royal Mile in Edinburgh

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: June 22, 2024

Discover what not to miss while walking the Royal Mile in Edinburgh in our complete tour of this iconic route.

If you want to see the highlights of Edinburgh while immersing yourself in history, there’s no better way than to walk the Royal Mile. This route stretches between Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and is actually a little over a mile long. 

This guide will lead the way when you want to take a self-guided walking tour in Edinburgh. Covered here is what to see and do en route, including what to look out for. Of all the best walks in Edinburgh, this has to be number one!

When walking this route, we recommend you start at the castle and work your way down towards Holyrood. This means you get to take a downhill walk, instead of an upward slog. As the route ends close to Holyrood Park, you could also take a post-walk break there while enjoying the scenic views. 

If you do want to visit the castle, you can also do that before it gets too busy. But you can of course take the walk in any direction you like!

From the ultimate Edinburgh self-guided walking tour to where to stay and eat, plus our top tips and FAQs, read on. Here’s where to go and what to see on the famous Edinburgh Royal Mile. 

Best tours and tickets along the Royal Mile

Edinburgh castle, the scotch whisky experience, camera obscura and world of illusions, alleyways along the royal mile, gladstone’s land, heart of midlothian mosaic, st giles cathedral, the real mary king’s close, john knox house and moubray house, the museum of childhood, the chocolatarium, the people’s story museum, canongate kirk, scottish parliament building, palace of holyroodhouse, holyrood park, makars gourmet mash bar, cheval old town chambers, the inn on the mile, radisson blu hotel, wear comfortable shoes, dress in layers, carry a rain jacket and/or umbrella, bring a water bottle, pack a picnic, what is the royal mile in edinburgh, where is the royal mile in edinburgh, how long is the royal mile in edinburgh, when will you be walking the royal mile in edinburgh.

⭐️ Guided Walking Tour with Entry Ticket to Edinburgh Castle

⭐️ Dark History Royal Mile Walking Tour

⭐️ The Scotch Whisky Experience Tour and Tasting

⭐️ Real Mary King’s Close Guided Tour

⭐️ Royal Attractions with Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours

⭐️ Palace of Holyroodhouse Entry Ticket

⭐️ Late-Night Underground Vaults Terror Tour

The Ultimate Edinburgh Royal Mile Walking Tour

Edinburgh Castle is incredibly rich in history, and in the past, has been home to a succession of Scottish monarchs. Tour it today and you can see the ancient buildings, the Crown Jewels, and of course the sweeping city views from the top. 

Standing proudly on an elevated site above the cobbled streets of the Old Town, Edinburgh Castle is the perfect starting point for your Royal Mile walk. 

Click here to book tickets for Edinburgh Castle

After leaving the castle, one of the first sites you’ll pass on the Royal Mile is the Scotch Whisky Experience. This popular visitor attraction shares the story of Scotch whisky . You can take tours, shop, dine, or attend tastings here. 

Tickets including tastings and a tour are very popular, and cover five Scottish whisky-making regions. 

Click here to book tickets for the Scotch Whisky Experience

Close to the Scotch Whisky Experience is Camera Obscura and World of Illusions . This appeals to people of all ages, featuring five floors of illusions, scientific wonders, and interactive experiences. 

Don’t miss the alleyways that you will see along the Royal Mile! Look out for Advocates Close (for that great view of Scott’s Monument) and other wonderfully named passageways.

I did a fabulous tour a few years ago to learn all about the dark history of the Royal Mile which included exploring more of these fascinating alleys.

Gladstone’s Land is one of the Royal Mile’s oldest buildings. You can go inside to discover what life was like centuries ago, and view original costumes and other exhibits. Don’t forget to look up, so you can see the stunning ceiling frescoes dating from 1620. 

There’s also a cafe and ice cream parlour on the ground floor. 

The Heart of Midlothian Mosaic on the Royal Mile is in front of St Giles Cathedral. This spot was once the entrance to the city’s Old Tolbooth. It’s said to be good luck to spit on the heart, so don’t be surprised if you see football fans doing just that!

One of the key sights along the Royal Mile, the Cathedral of St Giles is the Scottish answer to London’s Westminster Abbey. Look out for the stained glass window featuring John Knox, an influential preacher who spread the word for Protestantism and the Church of Scotland. 

The church is open to everyone, has been a working house of worship for around nine centuries, and is the venue for important services, including those involving the Most Ancient and Most Noble Order of the Thistle, and the Kirking of the Parliament. 

Free walking tours are offered daily, at 10.30 am or 2.30 pm.

Just past St Giles’ is the real Mary King’s Close. It’s beneath the Edinburgh City Chambers building. It’s the only 17th century street in the city, and you can tour it to imagine what life for Mary King, and other residents, must have been like. 

The close allows you to immerse yourself in four centuries of history, and has been named as Scotland’s Best Heritage Tourism Experience.

Click here to book tickets for the real Mary King’s Close

Moubray House and John Knox House are conjoined, and dating from 1470, together form the Royal Mile’s oldest mediaeval building. Knox didn’t actually stay here for long, but it’s his association with it that means it’s still standing. 

If you go in, look up at the The Oak Room ceiling to find the hidden devil. John Knox House forms part of the Scottish Storytelling Centre.

Whether you’re travelling with kids or want to please your inner child, the Museum of Childhood on the Royal Mile is a must. It’s free to enter, too, with a suggested donation of £3 per person. 

Exhibits span the period from the 1800s to today, and include toys, games, books, dolls, and even clothes.

Just off Cranston Street on the Royal Mile is the Chocolatarium, where you can make and taste all kinds of chocolate treats. A must for chocoholics!

Click here to book tickets for the Chocolatarium

Like the Museum of Childhood, the People’s Story Museum is also free to enter, again with a suggested £3 donation. Objects, images, and stories are used here to tell the tale of the city’s working class residents, between the 18th and 20th centuries. 

The building is interesting too, as it’s a tollbooth dating from the 16th century. 

Canongate Kirk can be found right by the People’s Story Museum. A number of prominent Scots are buried here, and the Presbyterian church dates from the 17th century. See if you can spot the graves of the poet Robert Fergusson and the economist Adam Smith. 

As well as the Kirk, the Parish of Canongate includes the Palace of Holyroodhouse and the Scottish Parliament. It’s used by the Royal Family when they’re visiting Edinburgh. 

The Scottish Parliament Building is at the end of the Royal Mile. It’s a modern structure, and construction commenced in 1999. Talks and guided tours take place here, and the public can also watch meetings, debates, and First Minister’s Questions. It’s always free to visit. 

Whether you enter or not, this bright, contemporary building with lots of curves, windows, wood, and local stone is well worth seeing. 

This royal palace dates from the 16th century, and is also at the end of the Royal Mile, by Holyrood Park. Today this is King Charles III’s official residence, and was also once home to Mary, Queen of Scots. 

The State Apartments, the Throne Room, and the Great Gallery are among the highlights. There’s also a cafe for refreshments. Entry to the palace is ticketed. 

Click here to book tickets for the Palace of Holyroodhouse

Whether you want to climb up to Arthur’s Seat or simply unwind with a picnic, picturesque Holyrood Park makes the perfect stop at the end of your Royal Mile walking tour. You can even find a lake, St Margaret’s Loch, in this sprawling park. 

Where to Eat on the Royal Mile

There are lots of restaurants, cafes, and pubs on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh, so there’s no shortage of places to eat! You can simply pick one and wander on in, or we do have one recommendation.

This Edinburgh eatery is rated fourth among all the city’s restaurants, which number over 1,600. It’s the place to sample hearty Scottish fare crafted from local ingredients. While meaty options of course feature, plant-based alternatives are available.  

Mashed potatoes are of course the speciality, served with a huge variety of flavourings and toppings. Makars Gourmet Mash Bar is situated on Bank Street, close to Lawnmarket. 

Where to Stay on the Royal Mile

Here are some suggestions if you want to find hotels on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh. We also have a guide to where to stay in Edinburgh if you would prefer an alternative location.

These deluxe apartments are only five minutes’ walk from Edinburgh Castle. There are studios, or apartments with up to three bedrooms, some with balconies. They’re luxuriously appointed and offer superb Royal Mile views. Breakfast is available daily, and there’s a gym and 24-hour reception desk. 

Click here to book Cheval Old Town Chambers

This is a four star, landmark property offering three floors of accommodation. Luxury rooms come with large flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, and even GHD hair stylers. There’s a bar serving pub food and drinks, and you can also order room service. The castle is just five minutes away on foot. 

Click here to book the Inn on the Mile

The Royal Mile’s Radisson Blu Hotel comes from a trusted name in hospitality and offers a range of room types. A real perk here is the indoor pool, sauna and gym.

You can also find Itchycoo Bar and Kitchen here, overlooking the Royal Mile. The concierge here is particularly helpful, too. 

Click to book the Radisson Blu

Tips for Walking in Edinburgh

If you’ll be walking in Edinburgh, comfortable footwear is a must! It’s easy to get heels caught in the cobbles, so avoid those. Sneakers for spring, summer and autumn, or walking boots for winter, are good choices to keep you comfortable all day long. 

It can get very chilly in Edinburgh in winter – and surprisingly hot in summer! Dressing in layers is the best way to cope with this, so you’re prepared for whatever conditions the Scottish weather brings. 

As in the rest of the UK, rain is a feature of Edinburgh life. So be prepared by bringing along a packable rain jacket and/or a compact travel umbrella. 

If you visit Edinburgh between late spring and early autumn, you could be surprised by how hot it can get! Even in winter you’ll need to drink water when doing lots of walking, anyway. 

If it’s dry and warm enough, bring along a picnic to enjoy in Holyrood Park at the end of your walk. While there are plenty of shops on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh, many are gift shops, so you might like to pick up supplies from supermarkets in the Princes Street area. 

🎧 Listen to the UK Travel Planning Podcast Episode #58 which shares our tips for first-time visitors to Edinburgh

The Royal Mile FAQs

The Royal Mile is a series of streets leading between Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood. The route through the city’s Old Town is actually a little over a mile. Along its length you can sample Scotch whisky, see ancient and modern buildings, and visit a range of museums and tourist attractions. 

The Royal Mile is in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. It connects Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

The streets making up the Royal Mile are Castle Hill, Lawnmarket, High Street, Canongate, and Abbey Strand.

The Royal Mile is actually slightly longer than a mile. So how long does it take to walk the Royal Mile? It really depends on the stops you make en route. If you walk briskly without stopping, you could make it in under half an hour. 

But in reality, stops and crowds will slow you down! It’s best not to rush this quintessential Edinburgh experience, anyway. 

Walking the Royal Mile in Edinburgh is an experience not to be missed! With so much to see and do along the way, it’s best to set out early to make the most of it. Allow at least a morning, but you could easily fill a full day with the sights there are to see. 

Plan ahead if you want to visit popular sites such as Edinburgh Castle, the Scotch Whisky Experience, Camera Obscura, or the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Tickets for the former, in particular, are often sold out, so be sure to book early to avoid disappointment on the day. 

📖 Read next

• Edinburgh Travel Guide
• 14 Best day trips from Edinburgh by train
• How to get from Edinburgh to the Isle of Skye
• 9 Best Edinburgh Ghost Tours
• 20 Practical Tips for first-time visitors to Edinburgh
• 21 Best Day Trips from Edinburgh
• 27 Things to do in Edinburgh

🎧 Listen

• Episode 88 – Exploring Edinburgh’s Greyfriars Kirkyard
• Episode 87 – Scotland Adventures with Edinburgh Black Cab Tours
• Episode 73 – Unforgettable day trips from Edinburgh by train
• Episode 63 – 36-hour Edinburgh Itinerary
• Episode 58 – Essential tips for first-time visitors to Edinburgh
• Episode 26 – London to Edinburgh by train

Royals and horses: The injuries, broken bones and falls

The royal family has a lifelong love of horses, with the Princess Royal competing at eventing in the Olympics and Zara Tindall winning a silver medal in London 2012.

Anne learnt to ride as a young child, with her mother the late Queen passing on her fascination with all things equestrian, and her father Prince Philip , the late Duke of Edinburgh, and brother the King both skilled horsemen and polo players.

But the Windsors’ close connection with horses has led to injuries in the past – mostly while riding, unlike Anne who was said to have been walking on her estate when she suffered concussion and minor injuries, consistent with impact from a horse’s head or legs.

Anne had several falls while competing as a showjumper.

In 1976, she was knocked unconscious and cracked a vertebra when she was thrown from her mother’s horse Candlewick while competing in the Portman Horse Trials in Dorset.

She suffered concussion and later said she could remember nothing about the incident.

Her daughter Zara was knocked unconscious when she fell from her horse in 2004 when she was competing in horse trials at Lulworth in Dorset and the animal, Ardfield Magic Star, started playing up, with both falling on their heads.

She was taken to hospital as a precaution and x-rayed, and later driven home by Anne.

Charles, as the Prince of Wales, has suffered the most horse-related injuries over the years.

He needed six stitches and was left with a two-inch scar on his face after being thrown and kicked by his polo pony in 1980.

On another occasion, he was hit in the throat, causing him to lose his voice for 10 days.

He broke his right arm in 1990 in a fall during a polo match and broke a rib when he tumbled from his horse in a hunting accident in 1998.

Charles also fractured a small bone in his shoulder after falling off his horse during a fox hunt in June 2001.

A few months later in August 2001, he was knocked unconscious when his horse threw him from its back during a polo match.

Cyndi Lauper announces UK and Europe farewell tour

King to undertake series of engagements in annual Scottish visit

The best moments from Taylor Swift's London Eras Tour shows

Why culture lovers should head to vibrant San Francisco

The prince swallowed his tongue after landing awkwardly on the grass at Cirencester Polo Club after a goalmouth skirmish in the charity game.

He was stretchered off and taken by ambulance to hospital as a precautionary measure.

In January 1994, the late Queen broke her wrist in a riding fall – but climbed back on her horse and rode home unaware she had suffered anything more than a bruise.

She suffered the fracture to her left wrist as she thrust her arm out when she fell riding on the Sandringham estate in Norfolk.

The same year she was treated in hospital after a horse kicked grit into her eye as she rode in the grounds of Windsor Castle.

The Queen is thought to have been in some discomfort before a doctor cleaned the eye out at the King Edward VII’s Hospital.

The Duke of Sussex – a keen polo player – was chucked off his pony during the first chukka of a charity match in New York in 2010 but dusted himself off unscathed and remounted.

Create a FREE account to continue reading

Registration is a free and easy way to support our journalism.

Join our community where you can: comment on stories; sign up to newsletters; enter competitions and access content on our app.

Your email address

Must be at least 6 characters, include an upper and lower case character and a number

You must be at least 18 years old to create an account

* Required fields

Already have an account? SIGN IN

By clicking Create Account you confirm that your data has been entered correctly and you have read and agree to our Terms of use , Cookie policy and Privacy policy .

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged in